ANKARA — Turkey on Wednesday marked the 10th anniversary of the July 15, 2016 coup attempt with nationwide ceremonies, memorial events, and public gatherings honoring those killed while resisting the putsch.
The anniversary was observed across the country’s 81 provinces with ceremonies organized by state institutions, municipalities, and security agencies, while museums in 54 provinces hosted exhibitions, remembrance events, and panel discussions focusing on the legacy of the failed coup.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described the July 15, 2016 failed coup bid as a defining moment in Turkish modern history, saying it represented a “declaration of independence”.
In an article, titled July 15: The Declaration of Independence of the Türkiye Century, published to mark the 10th anniversary of Democracy and National Unity Day, Erdogan said the failed coup was not only an attempt to overthrow the government but also an attack on the nation’s independence and democratic will.
“July 15 was not only the night when a treacherous coup attempt was thwarted, but also a great victory for democracy, written in golden letters in history, as our nation defended its will, democracy and independence at the cost of their lives,” he wrote.
The attempted coup saw a faction within the Turkish Armed Forces deploy tanks and fighter jets in Ankara and Istanbul while targeting key institutions, including parliament. The coup was defeated after civilians joined security forces in resisting the plot.
According to official figures, 253 people were killed and more than 2,700 injured. Turkish authorities blame the coup attempt on the FETÖ network led by Fethullah Gülen.
At the Turkish Parliament in Ankara, commemorations included prayers for those killed and wounded, floral tributes at the July 15 Martyrs’ Memorial, and a digital exhibition titled July 15: The Victory of the National Will. Additional exhibitions highlighted artwork dedicated to the anniversary.
Erdoğan and Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş are expected to address the main parliamentary ceremony before Erdoğan’s attendance at a larger evening gathering in the capital.
Thousands of people from across Turkey traveled to the central province of Niğde to visit the grave of Ömer Halisdemir, whose actions during the coup attempt are widely credited with helping alter its course. Visitors offered prayers and paid tribute to his role in resisting the putsch.
In Istanbul, roads leading to the July 15 Martyrs Bridge were temporarily closed for commemorative events, including a memorial march across the bridge, one of the main sites of violence during the coup attempt where 34 civilians were killed.
The anniversary program also features a drone light show over the Bosphorus, while Sabiha Gökçen Airport’s control tower is illuminated in red and white.
A photography exhibition opened at Istanbul Airport alongside a parallel display at İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
Across the country, landmarks are being illuminated in the colors of the Turkish flag. Historic bridges spanning the Meriç and Tunca rivers in Edirne are lit in red and white. In Cappadocia, hot-air balloons carrying Turkish flags and banners bearing the portraits of the 253 victims rose into the morning sky.
Reviewing the decade since the coup attempt, Erdogan said authorities had pursued an uncompromising campaign against the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) both domestically and abroad.
Erdogan said Turkey had emerged stronger over the past decade.
“We continue our fight against FETO and all similar terrorist organizations with the same determination. On the 10th anniversary of July 15, Türkiye is now much stronger, more resolute and more united,” he said.
“As long as the spirit of July 15 remains alive in these lands, no one should doubt that the treacherous plans of traitors and the dirty games of the global masterminds behind them will never succeed,” he added.
Erdogan concluded by paying tribute to those killed during the coup attempt and praying for the country’s unity and solidarity to endure.
Turkey’s first lady Emine Erdogan said the defeated coup attempt symbolized the Turkish nation’s unwavering courage and resistance, paying tribute to those who defended democracy.
In a post on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal marking, Emine Erdogan said July 15 “is the name of the resistance that rose from the homeland and of unshakable courage.”
Source: Saudi Gazette